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Paracentesis

Overview

Paracentesis is a medical procedure used to remove excess fluid (ascitic fluid) from the peritoneal cavity in the abdomen. This is typically performed to relieve symptoms such as abdominal swelling, pain, and difficulty breathing caused by fluid buildup due to conditions like liver cirrhosis, cancer, infection, or heart failure.

Steps of Paracentesis

  • Positioning: The patient lies down, often with their head elevated slightly.
  • Site Selection: The doctor determines the best puncture site, often in the lower abdomen.
  • Sterilization and Anesthesia: The area is cleaned, and a local anesthetic is injected.
  • Needle Insertion: A specialized needle or catheter is inserted into the abdominal cavity.
  • Fluid Removal: The doctor withdraws fluid either manually with a syringe or using suction.
  • Needle/Catheter Removal: Once enough fluid is removed, the needle is taken out.
  • Dressing and Monitoring: The puncture site is bandaged, and the patient is observed for any complications.
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How is Paracentesis Done?

  • Medical Evaluation: The doctor may conduct a physical examination and review the patient's medical history.
  • Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or CT scan may be used to locate fluid pockets and guide the procedure.
  • Laboratory Tests: Blood tests, including clotting tests (PT/INR, platelet count), may be done to assess bleeding risk.
  • Medication Adjustments: Patients on blood thinners may need to stop or adjust their medication before the procedure.
  • Informed Consent: The doctor explains the risks, benefits, and procedure, and the patient signs a consent form.
  • Pre-Procedure Fasting: Patients may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.

  • Typically performed in a hospital, clinic, or outpatient setting.
  • The patient lies down in a comfortable position, often on their back or slightly tilted.
  • The abdominal area is sterilized, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin.
  • A thin, hollow needle or catheter is inserted into the abdominal cavity to remove the fluid.
  • A sample of the fluid may be sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine the underlying cause.

While paracentesis is generally safe, potential complications include:

  • Bleeding: Injury to blood vessels may cause internal or external bleeding.
  • Infection: Introducing bacteria into the abdomen may lead to peritonitis.
  • Low Blood Pressure: Rapid fluid removal can cause a drop in blood pressure.
  • Organ Injury: Rarely, the needle may puncture the intestines, bladder, or other organs.
  • Leakage: Persistent fluid leakage from the puncture site.
What are the Benefits of Paracentesis ?
  • Relieves abdominal discomfort and bloating.
  • Helps improve breathing by reducing abdominal pressure.
  • Can diagnose the cause of ascites through fluid analysis.
  • A relatively quick and minimally invasive procedure.

Infrastructure Facilities

  • Medical Clinic or Hospital Setting
  • Ultrasound or CT Scan Equipment (if guided)
  • Sterile Procedure Kit (Needles, Catheters, Syringes, Antiseptics)
  • Monitoring Equipment (Blood Pressure Monitors, Oxygen Supply)
  • Laboratory for Fluid Analysis

FAQs

No, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so patients usually feel only slight pressure.

The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes.

No, it is usually an outpatient procedure unless complications arise.

Yes, in chronic conditions like cirrhosis, fluid may reaccumulate and require repeated procedures.

Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least 24 hours.

You can resume normal eating and drinking once you feel comfortable.

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Copyright 2025 TRSCH - All Rights Reserve

Website Design and Development by Sterco Digitex

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